adjective
septic
Relating to the breakdown of sewage by bacteria.
Our septic system uses bacteria to break down household waste.
Etymology
The Greek ancestor concerns putrefaction or decay. Sewage treatment uses septic for the bacterial breakdown of waste material.
More examples
- The septic tank needs to be pumped every few years.
- Heavy rain can overload a septic system.
- This house relies on septic treatment rather than a city sewer.